I knew it was coming. I even knew it was really, really close. Yet, I still wasn't ready for it. And now that it has happened, I still feel wholly unprepared. Almost ten years to the day that I brought Teddy home after meeting a stranger in the parking lot of Cooper Stadium in response to a "Free Dog to Good Home" advertisement in the paper, he is gone. He was a twelve-week old orphan, and we were his fifth home at that young age after his first owner died unexpectedly. Last Saturday was one of the worst days of my life. We miss him as deeply as we loved him, and we love him still.

There are three thoughts that keep me from drowning in despair:

--We did everything we could for him that would benefit him, and we stayed with him to the very end;

Thanks Mom. And thanks especially for finding that ad in the newspaper, thinking that I needed big dog because I had a big yard, and making the call. I guess it's true that "Mother knows best." And thanks to Dad for going with me to Cooper Stadium. There was no way I was going to go there by myself. And we all should have known what would happen if Dad went with me to "look at" a golden retriever puppy. Teddy loved you both, and so do I.

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Judy

11/17/2015 06:11:02 pm

I am grieving for that wonderful dog, Teddy. I remember when he was a rambunctious puppy, shortly after he joined your family. It seems almost impossible that his life has passed now. Teddy was the sweetest dog I ever met and his passing leaves a hole in my heart. I can only imagine your own grief, Dana, since Teddy followed you everywhere. It must feel like a part of you is missing. He was a big dog with a big strong bark, and a big presence in your house. A big dog with a big heart that was filled with love for his family and friends.

Teddy found the best home he could have had - good thing for him those first ones didn't work out. Teddy, the Golden Retriever, lived a golden life for a dog and that's the best thing any of us can do for our pets. He was a happy, well-loved boy. May sweet Teddy rest in peace.

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Dana

11/17/2015 06:54:54 pm

You are right, Judy...a part of me is missing. And I miss everything about Teddy. Thank you for recognizing his spectacular-ness. He loved everyone, and you were a special friend to him.

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Lisa

11/19/2015 06:10:13 pm

I was so sad when you texted me that Teddy passed away. My prayers go out to you and your family. Then, I just now remembered you had this blog, so I checked to see if you'd written about Teddy. I got caught up in reading several of your posts. Such heartfelt words. So lovely to read. You have a tender soul.

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Dana

11/19/2015 11:12:24 pm

Thanks Lisa. I'm glad you checked out Teddy on my blog. I had to write something, but it isn't enough. I'm sure there will be more later, along with a video sometime. I'm glad you got to meet him at my open house last year. It wasn't long after that that he was diagnosed. Maggie will have all canine responsibilities at this year's open house. Thanks for your prayers and your support. I know I can always count on you. I appreciate your friendship. And happy birthday.

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Kellie Rosta

11/22/2015 02:33:40 pm

Dana, I'm so sorry to hear about Teddy. He was such a sweet guy!! It broke my heart to read what he had been going through and I know the pain you're feeling and the emptiness that's in your heart. I plan to attend your open house and maybe soon after we can grab some lunch and chat. I would love to spend some time with you : )

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Dana

11/22/2015 07:02:05 pm

Hi Kellie. It's so nice to hear from you! I think about you sometimes when I go down Clark State Road past the street where you lived when you commissioned your portrait of Nicho. I hope all is well with you. Thank you for your kind and supportive comments, and I'm glad you got to meet Teddy. I know you are familiar with the heartache associated with the loss of a dear pet, which is really a family member. I'm really excited to see you and look forward to getting together. Thanks for writing, and I'm looking forward to seeing you at the open house.